Are you ready for the kind of emergency that shakes society to its core?
I’m talking about Rick Grimes riding into what used to be Atlanta on a horse, Tallahassee making his last stand in the world’s most deadly theme park, or Joel defeating the fungus among us all over the continental U.S.
Today, we’re going to cover the best urban rifle builds for when the SHTF. Oh, and maybe a treat or two along the way.
THE QUICK LIST
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Best Overall
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Best Folding Carbine
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Best .22 LR
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Best Budget
Table of Contents
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Urban Rifle Build Comparison Chart
| Caliber | Action | Capacity | Barrel Length | Overall Length | Weight | Price | |
| Geissele Super Duty | 5.56 NATO | Semi-automatic, direct impingement | 30+1 | 16″ | 32.25” – 35.87” | 7 lbs | $1,995 |
| IWI Zion-15 | 5.56 NATO | Semi-automatic, direct impingement | 30+1 | 16″ | 33” – 36.25” | 6.9 lbs | $874 |
| Smith & Wesson FPC | 10mm | Semi-automatic, blowback | 15+1 | 16.25 | 30.6″ | 5.7 lbs | $599 |
| Ruger 10/22 Takedown | .22 LR | Semi-automatic, blowback | 10+1 | 16.12″ | 34.62” | 5.3 lbs | $577 |
| Springfield Saint Victor PCC | 9mm | Semi-automatic, blowback | 32+1 | 16″ | 31.75” – 35” | 6.9 lbs | $1,104 |
| Marlin Dark Series Model 1894 | .357 Mag / .38 Spl | Lever action | 8+1 | 16.17″ | 34.63” | 6.4 lbs | $1,599 |
| KelTec SUB2000 | 9mm | Semi-automatic, blowback | Varies | 16.15″ | 29.2” | 5 lbs | $355 |
How We Tested the Best SHTF Urban Rifle Builds
For this article, we gathered a bunch of rifles we’ve personally shot, reviewed, and owned here at Pew Pew Tactical. The entire Pew Pew Tactical team, as well as freelance writers, contributed to this review to offer different opinions based on ergonomics, size, and experience.
Every review rifle undergoes reliability testing with 500 rounds of practice ammo, and accuracy testing with match-grade ammo at 100 yards. We require all AR-15s to be tested with at least 3 magazines to assess compatibility, and we use a Lyman Digital Trigger Gauge to measure the average trigger pull for all guns.
For guns we have reviews on, we’ve linked those so you can read more.
Meet the Experts
This article comes to you from Pew Pew Tactical Editor & Senior Review Analyst Scott Murdock. Scott has experience reviewing and training with rifles ranging from .22 LR linkers and old-school lever guns to AR-15s and precision rifles. He’s also completed urban warfare and close-quarters combat training during his time in the Marine Corps and as a civilian.
Editor-in-Chief Jacki Billings runs our experienced team of reviewers. She is a National Rifle Association Basic Pistol Instructor as well as a member of the Society of Professional Journalists, ACES: Society for Editing, and the Professional Outdoor Media Association. Jacki has a bachelor’s degree in journalism and has worked as a media professional for close to 20 years, specializing in gun media for almost 10 years. With 2,000+ articles to her name, she uses her professional journalism and editing experience to set testing protocols and editorial standards for Pew Pew Tactical.
Best Urban Rifle Builds for when SHTF
1. Geissele Super Duty – Best Overall
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Excellent components and build quality
- Reliable with a wide variety of ammunition
- Very accurate
Cons
- More expensive than many completed builds
- Doesn't come with any magazines
The Bottom Line
When it comes to battle-ready AR-15s, the Geissele Super Duty is the cream of the crop. It's accurate, reliable, and tough as nails. This is the rifle to bet your life on when everything around you is falling apart.
Specs
- Caliber: 5.56 NATO
- Action: Semi-automatic, direct impingement
- Capacity: 30+1
- Barrel Length: 16”
- Overall Length: 32.25” – 35.87”
- Weight: 7 lbs
- Recommended Optic: Trijicon ACOG
- Country of Origin: USA
If I ever had to fight off a zombie horde to save humanity, I’d want the best urban SHTF rifle out there. That’s the Geissele Super Duty.
This premium AR-15 will put the hurt on your wallet, but what are you saving you money for at this point?
It’s accurate enough to make the longest shots you’re likely to encounter. Its reliability record is bomb-proof. Every component is high end, and assembled with top-notch craftsmanship. Simply put, it’s what a fighting rifle should be.
If money were no object, I bet all of us here at Pew Pew Tactical would have a Geissele Super Duty in our collection.
The 5.56 NATO cartridge offers a great balance of power and capacity. It’s not perfect, but you’d be hard-pressed to find something it can’t do reasonably well. The Super Duty will spit out .223 Rem ammo, too, if that’s all you can find. That’s not true for all AR-15s.
Check out our full Geissele Super Duty review for more!
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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A rifle this nice deserves and equally awesome optic. In the name of durabillity, I’m going for the Trijicon ACOG.
This rock-solid optic proved itself in the Global War on Terror. It comes in a variety of magnification levels, and the chevron BDC reticle makes quick range estimation and elevation holds easy.
The fiber optic illumination is icing on the cake because it feeds off ambient lighting conditions and doesn’t require batteries. While it’s not as precise as something with exposed turrets and a little more magnification, I’ve reached out to 600 yards very capably with a four-power ACOG.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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When it comes to premium lighting, my favorite is the Modlite PLHv2-18650. It impressed me during my testing of the Best AR-15 Flashlights and would be my go-to choice as long as the budget allows. Reach is impressive, but there’s still enough light in the periphery to work in confined spaces.
Here’s what it’s like to shoot with this light at 15 and 50 yards.
2. Smith & Wesson M&P FPC – Best Folding Carbine
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Folds down to 16.5 inches
- Available in several popular cartridges
- Storage for two magazines in the buttstock
Cons
- Limited to pistol cartridges
- No iron sights
The Bottom Line
The Smith & Wesson M&P FPC puts affordable, low-recoiling pistol rounds downrange with the accuracy of a rifle. It folds in half to fit inside a backpack. There's room for all kinds of optics and accessories, including a suppressor. Best of all, you can choose from a range of cartridges. In a world full of bad news, this is a bright spot.
Specs
- Caliber: 10mm
- Action: Semi-automatic, blowback
- Capacity: 15+1
- Barrel Length: 16.25”
- Overall Length: 30.6”
- Weight: 5.7 lbs
- Recommended Optic: Sig Sauer Romeo5
- Country of Origin: USA
If you’re looking for carbine capability in a backpack-sized firearm, it doesn’t get much better than the Smith & Wesson M&P FPC.
This little powerhouse offers a threaded 16.25-inch barrel, a sturdy stock with storage for two magazines, a Picatinny rail for an optic, and an M-LOK rail for accessories.
At the same time, it feeds from the pistol grip so the overall package is shorter than, say, an AR-15 with the same length of pull and a carbine-length barrel.
Penetration can be a challenge in urban environments with lots of cover in the form of vehicles and walls, so this 10mm M&P FPC is just what the doctor ordered. Want something different? Smith & Wesson also chambers it for .22 LR, 5.7×28, 9mm, and .40 S&W.
It folds it in half for transportation, making it an ideal truck gun or backpack gun.
You can build a pretty sweet setup with a tactical backpack and soft armor from Premier Body Armor.
Just be advised that you’ll need to use the main compartment of the Vertx Gamut 22 rather than the CCW compartment for something as big as the M&P FPC.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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For an optic, I’d mount a Sig Sauer Romeo5 without the riser to keep things nice and compact.
It’s a proven optic that doesn’t break the budget. The unmagnified system works great at PCC distances and you can choose a red or green 2-MOA reticle.
3. Ruger 10/22 Takedown Heavy Barrel – Best .22 LR
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Breaks down for transportation
- Heavy barrel is very difficult to overheat
- Massive aftermarket support
Cons
- Limited power
- We wish it came with a Picatinny rail
The Bottom Line
While the Ruger 10/22 is down on power, only a fool would take on the zombie apocalypse without a pocket full of .22 LR. We love this rifle for its reliability, affordable ammo, and endless aftermarket support. I'm sure you will, too.
Specs
- Caliber: .22 LR
- Action: Semi-automatic, blowback
- Capacity: 10+1
- Barrel Length: 16.12”
- Overall Length: 34.62”
- Weight: 5.3 lbs
- Recommended Optic: Holosun 510C
- Country of Origin: USA
A rimfire plinker might not be the ultimate SHTF defense, but hear me out. A Ruger 10/22 can take small game, keep volume to a minimum with a suppressor, and allow you to carry a hundred rounds in your pocket.
If actual zombies end up behaving like “The Walking Dead” zombies, a humble .22 LR is a serious tactical advantage.
This model in particular (Ruger model number 21133) comes apart for easy transportation. The barrel can handle high round counts without overheating and the threaded muzzle lets you screw on a can.
It comes from the factory with 10-round magazines, but you can increase the round count with larger Ruger and aftermarket magazines.
The receiver is drilled and tapped, and there are no iron sights. I recommend adding a Picatinny rail so you can add your preferred red dot.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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This rifle doesn’t call for magnification, so I recommend the Holosun 510C.
This red dot is an oldy but a goody. I mainly chose it for the solar panel that conserves battery life as long as there’s adequate sunlight. It’s also proven to be durable during testing and use by multiple members of the Pew Pew Tactical team.
The big window and versatile multi-reticle works well for up close and personal snap shots as well as more precise shot placement out to 100 yards or so.
4. Springfield Saint Victor PCC – Best PCC
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- B5 Systems furniture
- Dual feed ramps for reliable feeding
- Impressive accuracy
Cons
- QD points on the handguard would be nice
- Limited Picatinny rail space
The Bottom Line
The more I shoot the Springfield Armory Saint Victor PCC, the more I like it. This high-quality 9mm carbine lets you shoot the same ammo you carry for your pistol, but with far greater control and accuracy. Mount up a red dot and a weapon light to make yourself a formidable force for good.
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm
- Action: Semi-automatic, blowback
- Capacity: 32+1
- Barrel Length: 16”
- Overall Length: 31.75” – 35”
- Weight: 6.9 lbs
- Recommended Optic: Vortex SPARC Solar
- Country of Origin: USA
Urban SHTF scenarios might be a perfect match for pistol-caliber carbines. My pick? The Springfield Armory Saint Victor PCC.
The Saint Victor PCC feels like any other AR-15, so the learning curve will be basically nonexistent if you’re familiar with the platform.
The big advantage here is sourcing ammo, since the same 9mm ammo you use for your pistol will work here. It might be easier to get ahold of than 5.56 NATO ammo, too, depending on where you live. Many urban areas make AR-15 ownership so difficult that the local supply of rifle ammo is relatively limited.
It’s no plinker, though. This is the PCC I used for my 9mm ammo test, and I would not want to trade places with any of those gel blocks. Grab some all-copper bullets if you’re concerned about underpenetration from 9mm.
As long as you aren’t shooting certain subsonic loads, the Saint Victor is very reliable. Dual feed ramps and simple blowback operation help it run like a Swiss watch, even with some carbon buildup in the system. It impressed me in the accuracy department, too.
The charging handle is basic, but functional. Upgraded furniture and a lightweight M-LOK handguard make the Saint Victor feel more expensive than it is.
The forward blast diverter keeps the shooting experience comfortable and looks fantastic (looking good is half the battle).
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Backup iron sights come standard, which is a big advantage for today’s topic. Still, I’d add an optic and keep the backup irons as, well, a backup.
Pew Pew Tactical’s resident Saint Victor PCC currently has a Vortex Crossfire green dot installed. It’s a fine optic, but I’d upgrade to the Vortex Sparc Solar to extend battery life after the fall of civilization.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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A SureFire Mini Scout Light Pro and a set of rechargeable batteries would make this a formidable force for the living. The compact size and wide-angle beam are perfect for a PCC.
Call this build the patron saint of zombie survivors.
5. Keltec SUB2000 – Best Budget
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Available for multiple magazines and cartridges
- Super affordable
- Folds up and fits in a backpack
Cons
- Very utilitarian in fit and finish
The Bottom Line
Prepping for the end of times is expensive, and the KelTec Sub2000 will free up money for other essentials. This affordable PCC takes common 9mm ammo, and folds down into a more manageable size for storage and transportation. With Picatinny and M-LOK rails, you can add plenty of useful accessories, too.
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm
- Action: Semi-automatic, blowback
- Capacity: Varies
- Barrel Length: 16.15”
- Overall Length: 29.2”
- Weight: 5 lbs
- Recommended Optic: Holosun EPS
- Country of Origin: USA
Looking to keep costs to a minimum? I get that. The KelTec SUB2000 is just what you need.
In addition to being wildly affordable, it’s lightweight and folds in half – perfect for tossing in a CCW backpack like the Eberlestock Fade Transport.
The SUB2000 takes Glock magazines, so you can feed it and your carry pistol without doubling the number of mags you need.
It’s not fancy, but it gets the job done and leaves plenty of money in your budget for training; and training beats gear when it’s all on the line.
We have a KelTec SUB2000 review with all the details!
And yes, you can add an optic without compromising the folding ability.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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I’d recommend something small and lightweight, to keep this PCC’s profile nice and low. Something like the Holosun EPS (another solar-powered red dot, but smaller) with a Picatinny adapter would be the bee’s knees.
And yeah, it’s tough enough for the streets.
Honorable Mentions
We’ve had great experiences with the following, but they tend to go in and out of stock frequently, so availability isn’t as good as the others.
6. IWI Zion-15 – Best Value
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Very accurate with the right ammo
- Hot, but reliable
- Some nice upgrades for a reasonable price
Cons
- Mil-spec charging handle
- Controls aren't ambidextrous
The Bottom Line
When we compared the best budget AR-15s, the IWI Zion-15 stood head and shoulders above the rest. It's a well-built rifle at a price most average shooters can actually afford, and you don't need to upgrade it to get your money's worth. Just think of all the money you can set aside for ammo!
Specs
- Caliber: 5.56 NATO
- Action: Semi-automatic, direct impingement
- Capacity: 30+1
- Barrel Length: 16”
- Overall Length: 33” – 36.25”
- Weight: 6.9 lbs
- Recommended Optic: Primary Arms SLx 1-6x Gen IV ACSS
- Country of Origin: Israel
If you can’t justify spending Super Duty money, allow me to introduce the IWI Zion-15. This budget-friendly AR-15 impressed us in testing with lots of bang for the buck.
B5 Systems furniture is a welcome upgrade, as is the M-LOK handguard. The mil-spec charging handle is a bummer, but that’s probably the easiest component to replace so I won’t complain.
During our testing, the ZION-15 performed respectably with a variety of ammunition. The best results – sub-MOA five-shot groups – came from 77gr Nosler ammo.
It cycled reliably with a variety of magazines, and recoil felt relatively soft. Long story short, it’s a viable contender regardless of the price.
Want to learn more? Check out our hands-on IWI Zion-15 review!
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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The Primary Arms SLx 1-6x Gen IV ACSS is an equally value-forward LPVO. It lets you engage near targets with single-power magnification like a red dot, then dial up the power for longer shots.
Don’t have batteries? That’s alright, because the etched ACSS reticle will always work even if it doesn’t illuminate.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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You can also get a good weapon light for a reasonable price, and I’m going to recommend the Streamlight ProTac Rail Mount HL-X Pro for this build.
This light comes with multiple modes, including a strobe function, as well as everything you need to install and use a pressure pad instead of the tail cap. Mounting hardware for Picatinny and M-LOK handguards is included, too.
The beam is fairly versatile, so it works at close and medium engagement distances. You can’t beat it for the money.
7. Marlin Dark Series Model 1894 – Best Lever Gun
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Several cartridges and configurations available
- Share rifle and revolver ammo
- Allowed in places with restrictive magazine laws
Cons
- Limited capacity and range
- More expensive ammunition
The Bottom Line
Don't you dare call the Marlin Dark Series Lever-Action Rifle outdated. This lever gun is ready for tomorrow's challenges with updated features and a host of compatible aftermarket upgrades available. Added bonus: the opportunity to shout "yee-haw" after you empty the tube.
Specs
- Caliber: .357 Mag
- Action: Lever action
- Capacity: 8+1
- Barrel Length: 16.17”
- Overall Length: 34.63”
- Weight: 6.4 lbs
- Recommended Optic: Primary Arms SLx Cyclops Gen 2 ACSS
- Country of Origin: USA
I know we’re talking about hypothetical future scenarios, but let’s reach back in time to one of the Pew Pew tactical team’s favorite genres: lever-action rifles. This time, I want the Marlin Dark Series Model 1894.
This carbine can punch through barriers, drop undead assailants, and even take big game animals if you get the chance. At the same time, it’ll accept multiple types of ammunition.
Because the Model 1894 is chambered for .357 Mag, it will also accept .38 Spl. That doubles your odds of finding compatible ammo in the rubble remains of humanity. If you pair it with a .357 Mag revolver, the guns can share ammo.
The Dark Series features QD sling mounts, an M-LOK handguard, a fiber optic front sight, and a long Picatinny rail for optics.
Oh, and the barrel is threaded for a suppressor under the factory muzzle brake. It isn’t your grandfather’s lever gun.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Range is fairly limited with .357 Mag (and more so with .38 Spl), so a good prism optic like the Primary Arms SLx MicroPrism is perfect for the Model 1894.
Its etched reticle works without batteries, and the compact size won’t ruin this lever gun’s lines. You have a few options when it comes to magnification.
How to Pick the Best Urban Rifle for When SHTF
Stopping Power
As always, the right amount of stopping power is dictated by the threats you’re facing. It’s why people in brown bear country carry massive revolvers and the rest of us can get by with compact 9mm pistols.
If we’re dealing with “The Walking Dead” zombies, which are slow, sound-sensitive, and require a head shot, give me a suppressed .22 LR all day.
If it’s “I Am Legend” zombies coming after me, I want something fast and fairly powerful; maybe an AR-15 in 5.56 NATO. If the threat is a mixed bag of zombies, critters, an hostile survivors, you can’t go wrong with a tactical shotgun.
Capacity
Next, think about how much ammunition your firearm can hold, how long it takes to reload, and how much ammo you can carry.
Assuming you’ve narrowed your search down to cartridges that have adequate stopping power, having more rounds at your disposal is always better than running dry.
Remember that aftermarket magazines for popular guns like 1911s, AR-15s, Glocks, and the Ruger 10/22 can be a great way to boost capacity.
Effective Range
Urban zombie survival involves a lot more room clearing and small-unit tactics than long-distance precision shooting. While urban settings might present occasional threats at 200 to 300 yards, that’s the exception rather than the rule.
Whichever SHTF gun you reach for, think about keeping barrel length and overall weight down so you can stay fast and maneuverable. Leave the sniper rifle at home for this one.
Ammunition Availability
Your favorite ammo might be a few clicks and two-day delivery away right now, but supplies can dry up overnight in a SHTF scenario.
Your .357 Sig, 6.5 Grendel, and 8.6 Blackout are awesome, but finding ammo during the end of times probably isn’t going to happen.
Even if demand for common cartridges is through the roof, you at least have the option to team up with someone or trade for it. Stockpiling ammo ahead of time will definitely be cheaper, too.
Optics & Accessories
The worst thing about a mass SHTF situation wouldn’t be the zombies, warlords, or starvation. It would be the insufferable “I told you so” lectures from people who use iron sights.
Finding batteries for your electronic optics and weapon lights might be a challenge, but stockpiling CR2032 and CR123 batteries ahead of time could keep you up and running for years. A red dot with solar capability could last a lifetime on just a few packs of batteries.
If you have the ability to pick up a solar generator, you could power accessories with a bank of rechargeable batteries. They’re expensive, but useful.
As a Marine of a certain age, I’m morally obligated to remind you that the mighty Trijicon ACOG would absolutely thrive in this kind of environment.
Battery-powered rifle scopes and prism optics with etched reticles might not light up, but they’d at least be usable with good lighting.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully the S never does H the F, but it’s a fun mental exercise to brainstorm for it. At the very least, you might end up being better prepared for an emergency that falls short of global zombie apocalypse.
What’s your last line-of-defense firearm? Let us know in the comments! Looking for more survival tips and tricks? Check out all of our Survival and Prepping Guides!
Latest Updates
January 2026: Removed the Kalashnikov USA KR-103. Added the Smith & Wesson FPC. Updated supporting content.
50 Leave a Reply
One of many reasons why I got the heck out of New York. . . . . Queen wHorehul.
Alas, I live in the once great State of New York, where the Empress Hochul and her friends keep creating restrictions and wait for SCOTUS to knock them down. I need to count on multiple magazines for capcaity
Pretty much one (or more) of everything, including stuff the other side uses and might leave around. And there's no such thing as too much ammo.
I’m not long winded. I would like a AR15, PCC and an AR10 to deal with those pesky unfriendly human types from far away.
All good choices, Patrick. Thanks for reading!
Some good choices, and a lot of crappy ones.
The ACOG is an excellent sight, but if your have it for more than 3 years, the tritium of the sight will be noticeably dim: at 5 years, the tritium will hardly be useful in any but dark-of-night engagements. Having Trijicon refurbish one is next to impossible, and their customer service is the industry’s worst in my experience — and that’s being kind. Let’s not forget that tritium is a deadly radioactive isotope of hydrogen, and it will cause the worst cancers known to man — and quickly — if it gets loose in the environment. Trijicon quotes a price more than a new ACOG to get the tritium replaced, so you’re stuck with it: Trijicon has no facility for disposing of radioactive materials — and they don’t want yours, no matter what their customer service department tells you. (It’s a federal felony to dispose of one improperly.)
The Aimpoint Patrol Rifle Optic (PRO) is a dandy sight — and I’d say that a majority of ex-special ops people I know have them on their rifles. Everything that Trijicon isn’t when it comes to quality customer service and support, Aimpoint is. They are finest kind.
The Surefire M640U Scout Rifle Light Pro is an excellent light, but spend the money for the remote switch, which mounts to your Picatinny rail closer to your support hand. I’d recommend getting its “Vampire” cousin, which has both white light and IR. I have two of the Scout Pro lightsmounted on rifles, but I’m moving to night vision sights and the “Vampire” IR/white light version has suddenly become very popular: wonder why?
I’m not at all impressed by the Primary Arms LPVO: it has pretty bad optics problems including chromatic aberration. Go big or go home: spend the money on your optics: you can’t go wrong. Think Vortex Razor HD 1-6, 1-8, or 1-10: buy it once and you’ll love it for life.
Did I mention that you can’t go wrong with buying quality optics?
The Holosun optics recommended are wonderful, and very dependable. You can’t go wrong buying quality optics, and Holosun makes some of the best. Nice people to work with.
The Streamlight ProTac Rail Mount 2 isn’t a bad light, but their mount is a blood nuisance. The tail cap switch is far better than what Surefire offers, but get the remote switch for it: less fumbling in the dark.
Last of all, while most of the accessories are great, the right shotgun is the way to go. I invested in the Genesis-12 Short-barreled shotgun, and short of the need to hunt for game beyond 100 yds, it takes care of business with everything in between. Ammunition is not likely to be a problem, and unlike .22LR and 9mm ammo, the shells are easy to reload — and if the zombies are wearing body armor, the shotgun gives you far more options. Ya know?
My congratulations! You’re almost batting 50%.
Almost.
The Ruger 10/22 is def a must-have. I procured a threaded barrel for it, added a suppressor, a short Picatinny rail, and mounted a Rico Micro V2 640 12MC Thermal scope to it. Why? Not only is it whisper-quiet, but anything producing heat in a situation like this is fair game. Yanno? I’ll know they’re around before they know I’m around. Adding a $6000 sight to such a rifle? I believe in stacking the deck in my favor: Improvise; adapt; overcome; cheat.
The Zion isn’t a bad rifle. I much prefer the Noveske N-4 in 5.56mm, suppressed, with a NV sight, IR laser, IR illuminator. Improvise; adapt; overcome; cheat.
The Springfield Armory Saint Victor is a good choice, but mine is a .308 Win. Think distance: one shot, one….
The Marlin 1895G would be my recommendation in .45/70 Govt. you want to eat, don’t you?
All these little calibers make sense if your zombie is a wimp — but don’t count on that. Submunition ammunition is great as long as you’re one-on-one. Go big, or go home. The Genesis-12 SBS does everything from doves to T-Rex, and with the 7” barrel, it’s perfect for room-clearing CQB: equip it with a Holosun NV sight, IR laser, IR illuminator, and you’re GTG.
Sure, .22LR and 9mm ammo is more likely to be available SHTF, but so is 12-gauge. You might want to think ballistics before buying most of these firearms. Be smart about your choices, and choose wisely. And, if you want eat — unless you have a taste for zombie meat — leave the pistol-caliber rifles in the gun store.
If you wanna eat, USE THE 308! The lever action would be better in 22mag
I got a Mini 14 and put the folding stock on But got the Mini 30 and put on the folding stock for deer hunting because of the 30 30 and 30 06 like ammo coming out, took it out the last two years for deer hunting and harvested a few that dropped fast and using a 1-6x ACCS scope in thick woods. The other key is when folded they fit in my back pack. I have a AR-10 and long barrel bolt rifle in 6.5 Creedmoor when pulling a deer some 200 to 300 yards to my boat (no 4 wheeler can get to) that big rifle hits your knees and is just in the way also climbing up to a deer stand you need to rope one up. But a Mini 30 with a folding stock fits in a backpack out of the way when hauling a deer. Also the New Mini 30 with the new ammo will hit right above the shoulder at 50 yards or even down a single wire power line way out to 300yds (I have done a couple times) and will drop a 12 point that is chasing a couple does as it comes out of the wood in it tracks. The other point I can also have my AF survival rifle in my backpack for those days the deer stay in place and I can get a few squirrels or rabbits before heading home. The 5.56 just does not look like a deer or elk round but I do have a couple of 50cal cans full of it as well as boxes of 30 06 from the old days as well as a few cans of 6.5 when it was $15 a box during hunting season some years ago. I wear hunter orange camo and most times just sit against a tree and a lot of time a buck or Doe would walk 20 or 30 yards away and I would just use my 45!
Great recommendations, Ed. Thanks for weighing in!
K-USA been out of business ,
And yet, like the undead themselves, AKs have a way of rising from the grave. Hopefully not together. An armed zombie is a different animal altogether.
That’s a different take on things. Not my choice on even one, but I enjoy differing opinions, that’s what I like about this site.
We'd love to hear your zombie-fightin' picks! Don't be bashful if it's just a chainsaw and a CamelBack of pre-mixed gas.
9mm Smith & Wesson M&P FPC Series Folding Carbine? Cheers!
That's a great choice, too! It's very similar to the KelTec but more high-end. Given how many police departments and private citizens use M&P magazines, it's a wise choice in that regard, as well.
Very interested in this article, as I have already seen sub-100 IQ zombies in and around the DMV area.
For sheer capacity, I'm looking at the Keltec P50 in 5.7 with a capacity of 50.
For sheer single-shot thumping power, I'm looking at either a CMMG Dissent or Banshee in 308 with a 12.5 barrel, or a POF Revolution or Rogue in the same caliber and barrel length (the Revolution is piston driven or DI). But I would have to train more with those firearms. Not for beginners.
Otherwise, I will probably stick with handguns and/or my beloved B&T SPC10/APC10...but I got those before the Saint Victor PCC came out (isn't that brand new?). I would recommend going straight to the integrally suppressed options (B&T or the Keltec SUB CQB).
Thanks for reading, Dusty! Springfield did just revamp the Saint Victor line, but this particular PCC has been out for a while. If you have a B&T, sticking with it is a fantastic and tasteful choice.
Interesting article! Uncommon opinion, but I feel the 9mm has a better chance in a strictly urban scenario than the 5.56. Its ammo is more readily available, and the projectile is larger in terms of surface area. My recommendation would be the M&P FPC topped with the MRO and magnifier. It’s my ultimate truck gun. For my more suburban or hunting needs, I normally use my CMMG MK47. I’ve got backup irons on it now, but I’m considering the Trijicon LPVO. I pray I never have to use them, but with turbulent times, it’s better to be prepared.
An obvious downside to 9mm vs 7.62x39 or 556 even considering the operational load for your FPC would be if the gangsters were wearing body armor?
Good point. I didn’t consider that, but I’m assuming that they’d likely not have body armor. If they did, chances are it’d be soft armor. If that’s the case, then over pressured 9mm would possible cause enough trauma to at least incapacitate them. I guess the obvious solution would just be to buy two or three dozen Rottweilers and train them on gangster blood. If guns don’t work, dogs sound like a great option. Definitely dogs.
That was honestly a hard read.
Well I kinda built an 18" Barrel 6.5 Grendel with quick release scope base the a 4-12 x 40 Athlon Neos Scope. I can remove the scope for urban and use flip up iron sights. Reattach the scope ones out in the hills and have range and accuracy for hunting. I would suspect most of the hunting would be done with my Ruger 10-22 Takedown.
I saw someone else poi t this out but it bares repeating...
Where on earth are you finding .300 Blackout, .308 in times of COVID, Biden, Riots, etc...? I work at a local gun/ammo shop and we can't get our hands on any. And that's from manufacturers, distributors, local reloaders, anywhere... but we have been able to find 5.56/.223 a hell of alot easier and have had it on the shelves for purchase. So if this is during the current political/societal situation if SHTF then I would go with something chambered in 5.56 or 7.62X39 cause those are the easiest calibers to find right now from what I'm seeing.
I don't disagree with you but I've found 308 a hell of a lot more than 556/223. It's $2 a round, but it's there.
If you're planning for a societal collapse, wouldn't you stockpile the ammunition of choice before there's a run?
I agree on finding certain ammo in a SHTF-Senario(WROL)But even before Covid-19,everyone who is serious about firearms,everyone should have plenty of ammunition-in your calibers of choice.I’m not a big believer of finding/scrounging or bartering for ammo.So(in my opinion)People should already be set.No matter what you calibers of choice are.
For me it’s-7.62x51/307(M1A1 Socom)45-a Private handgun,and especially for my urban defense(12-gauge)Foster Slugs-Few,but mostly Number-4 and 00-buck
Nice article thank you.
K.I.S.S. = always
7.63x39mm was designed for "Urban Survival".
308 Win is probably the easiest ammo at this time to obtain of all the listed ones.
Based on a few decades of "real life" patching up leaky people, any .30 cal is going to be better than any .22 cal for "defensive" purposes.
Any rifle is better than no rifle.
12 ga Whilst not a rifle is a never a bad choice for "Urban" situations.
I can't disagree with you.
To me a rifle caliber cartridge is meant(in general)For distance engagements.I do have an(M1A1 Socom)But it is 45acp handgun,and most importantly(in my opinion)Is 12-gauge-00(Buck)But I understand your point
intresting considerations..... stay safe !!!!! from Italy
NEVER MENTION DETROIT AGAIN AS FAR AS GUN RIGHTS. WE ARE A FREE PEOPLE HERE WITHOUT A BUNCH OF BS ABOUT OWNING OR BUILDING ANYTHING AS LONG AS YOUR ABLE TOO!
....what?
...okay
OK, Sorry guys I will take the coming beating. IMHO, find a rifle, I like the 200 yard idea, get a common caliber available most areas. Get something that feels totally natural to you, optics, sights, lights are a confirmation of the shooter, weapon interface. Practice, but most important to me, God forbid it gets to that point but, learn to use what the other guy brought. Learn multiple weapons platforms and ballistic performance. Use the stuff the other guy no longer needs. Your stuff gets you started and out of the worst situation. Again just my opinion.
I have to agree with Silky Johnson on this one, on several points... And forgive me, as I hate to "troll" people in our firearms and tactical space who are trying to help everyone out. I like the IDEA of this article, and so I clicked on it when I saw it in my inbox. The problem is... there are several. I think it also comes to a lack of experience, or forgive me, "real-world" knowledge and experience in some cases. And yes, the choices and combos here seem to be pretty random.
Also, where in the heck are you finding .300 Blackout or .308 in "times of COVID?" Because my buddies and I are not seeing any. haha! And if COVID is the basis of justification for finding those rounds, I think that is a huge miss. While 5.56 has certain and well-known shortfalls, the sheer fact that it is and would be the easiest round to find or come across when the SHTF scenarios possibly emerge one day, it cannot be ignored. It will be way easier to find than .300 Blackout, for example, and especially since these days, most ammo manufacturers have stopped making it in favor of 5.56. And I am sorry... there are very few real-world scenarios where I would chose 7.62x39 over 5.56 - also based on real-world experience. The 5.56 is on it's way out here soon... and it's also killed a lot of badguys and done the job all around the world. In an urban or SHTF environment, it has also has its merits (apart from hunting) and should not be readily dismissed the way it has been here. Practicality also matters if we are talking about end-of-the-world/society scenarios.
This article would be better, with much better insight, better vision, planning, options, and incorporating more real-world experience and examples. Food for thought. Stay safe.
Well, I know the author personally and he has quite a bit of real world experience.
That said, it sounds like you're advocating preparation after the threat has arrived. Did you stockpile your ammunition of choice? If not, why not?
You might not be able to find 300blk or 308, but i know i have. Or, you could just reload it yourself. Are you positive manufacturers have slowed 300 blk to focus on 556? Do you work or have real-world experience in the ammunition business? Do you understand the tooling necessary to do that swap?
I have to agree with you that SHTF 223/556 will be easier to find. But 308 and 762x39 will be very close behind. What about about an invasion? Most for NATO forces would be carrying 308, Russian forces would be carrying 545 and most chinese backed forces would becarrying 762x39.
I'll take: my real-world experience for $500, Alex.
I get your point but this isn't meant to be storytime. My experience is not others' experience and theirs is not mine. I tried to give a wide range of options based upon people's own personal needs, budgets, and potential uses.
If you'd like my experience, 7.62x39 or 7.62x51 can solve all issues pretty quickly if you can handle the firearm weight - compared to an AR - and the weight of 308 ammunition. In an urban area, a 308 can turn cover into concealment, although a non-exploding 50 BMG would be good too. If attacked by an opposing force - as per my experience - 7.62x39 has been far easier to find in-field than 5.56.
My SHTF, go-to, is a Norinco MAK-90, with a DoubleStar skeleton folding stock, iron sights, and a two-point sling. I sanded down all of the wood, and stained it flat black. I really like the 7.62x39 round, it is great for 2 and 4 legged animals, and it is the most plentiful ammunition in the world. Steel, brass, or bi-metal, it eats them all. I have shot thousands of rounds through this rifle, with no misfires, feeding problems, or ejections issues. Optics can fail, but iron sights don’t have glass or take batteries. You can shoot offhand and ring steel at 100 yards all day; takes a bit more support at 200 yards, but still consistent. I have not been able to buy or build a more reliable rifle for the money. And, it just runs, always.
I think the author should stick to martial arts. I like the idea of this article, but some of these builds would not be my first choice. I’m not putting any of the suggested cheap-ass optics that will break on my rifles. Basically it’s just a list of common calibers using a common barrel length and putting random crap on them. Try harder.
I kinda have to agree with you on this one, I think...
Which optics are those? EOTech? Holosun? DI? Crimson Trace? Acme Machine?
Ken Whitmore did some great articles looking at the durability of Acme optics, and the optics are made in the same place as many of the 'high end' options.
DI is what the South Korean military and some of the US Military uses. Holosun has a well earned respect in the industry. EOTech is fun.
I'm glad you've decided what you don't like. The whole point is to provide options for others based on preference and budget. I'm glad this has helped you eliminate some optics from your own lineup.
Can you do more scenario based build projects like this? This is hands down the most interesting blog article I’ve seen in awhile
Uhhhhhhh did you guys post an AOW on accident? Pretty sure that vert grip and the pistol brace aren't compatible lol
We mention in the text that that configuration does qualify as an AOW but that you can swap some things around to make it a regular 'ole compliant gun.
Nothing to worry about in an industrial area because any local zombies would be expected to either get a job or get out.
i have a pretty big household
so here it goes:
2 x 10.5 inch ar pistols = 1 in 5.56 / 1 in 7.62x39
primary arms 2 moa red dot on the 5.56
holosun 2 moa red dot on the 7.62x39
500 lumen streamlights on both
both shoot 2-3 moa at 300 yards
3 x 16.5 inch ar carbines = 2 in 5.56 / 1 in 7.62x39
vortex 1-6x and bushnell 1-6x on the 5.56s
primary arms 1-4x on the 7.62x39
illuminated reticles on all 3 scopes
1000 lumen streamlights on all 3 carbines
all 3 shoot 1-2 moa at 300 yards
1 x 18 inch ar rifle mk12 spr clone in .223 wylde fluted barrel mid length gas system
vortex 4-16x strike industries j comp
rock river arms 2 stage match trigger
shoots sub moa to 300 yards with factory match ammo
no light...its too heavy already
i hope to God it never comes to all this...
i'm coming to your place if there's ever a zombie apocalypse!
Have you had feeding issues with your AR in 762x39? I can't get mine to feed properly.
Thank you for the information.